Study Painting & Decorating

Career Outcomes

Painting Trades Worker (332211): currently on Medium and Long-term Strategic Skill List (MLTSSL)
Interior Decorator (399912) *must undertake further study at the diploma level: currently on Regional Occupational List (ROL)

Industry Overview

The construction industry is a significant driver of economic activity in Australia and is projected to grow by 2.4% in the next 5 years. It employs close to 1.2 million people and has the largest number of small businesses in Australia. Construction workers are employed in both residential and commercial sectors, and are involved in site preparation, building installation and structure services. The majority of workers in the sector are employed as carpenters and joiners, followed by construction managers and plumbers (Source: IBISWorld)

The number of people working as Painting Trades Workers (in their main job) grew very strongly over 5 years: from 43,100 in 2014 to 53,200 in 2019.

Insights

Average weekly earnings:  $1,371 per week

Mode of work: Most work full-time (76%)

Hours per week: full-time workers spend around 43 hours/ week at work.

Age: the average age is 42 years.

Gender: 4% workers are female

(Source: Joboutlook.gov.au)

Qualification Needed

Workers usually need a certificate III in painting and decorating. These courses are often completed as part of an apprenticeship.

Course Overview

Painting trades workers apply paint, varnish, wallpaper and other finishes to protect, maintain and decorate surfaces of buildings and structures. Studies in painting and decorating will teach you how to use trestle and plank systems, use painting and decorating tools and equipment, apply paint and wallpaper and operate elevated work platforms.

Course Requirements

Most institutions require completion of Australian Year 11 or 12 (or equivalent), as well as a minimum IELTS score of 5.5 with no band score less than 5.

Costs

A 2-year packaged trade course costs between $12,000 and $19,000 per year, depending on the institution.

Career Outcomes

Painting Trades Worker
Interior Decorator *must undertake further study at the diploma level.